Volume 23: March 1652 | British History Online

Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1651-2. Originally published by Her Majesty's Stationery Office, London, 1877.

'Volume 23: March 1652', in Calendar of State Papers Domestic: Interregnum, 1651-2, (London, 1877) pp. 164-203. British History Online https://www.british-history.ac.uk/cal-state-papers/domestic/interregnum/1651-2/pp164-203 [accessed 19 April 2024]

March 1652



March 1.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The petition of Stephen Seares, porter to Council, referred to the Committee for the Officers about Whitehall.
	2. That of Dr. Philip Carteret referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	4. The liberty of the Tower to be given to Major Edward Broughton, prisoner there, and this to be signified to the Lieutenant.
	6. The letters from Cols. Bingham and Heane of 26 Feb., and the petition of John Saumarez, late Receiver of Guernsey, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, to report.
	7. The appointed Committee to meet the agent from the Count of Oldenburgh to-morrow, to receive what he has to offer before his return to his master; Sir Oliver Fleming to give him notice and bring him to his audience.
	8. Sir Arthur Hesilrigge to discharge all the Scotch prisoners under the degree of captain, who are not Highlanders, now at Durham, and give them passes for Scotland, they taking an engagement never more to bear arms against the commonwealth of England.
	9. Mr. Frost to pay 5l. to George Lewis, out of the contingent money of the Council, for his services in discovering some scandalous books, and to inform him that the order of Parliament annexed to his petition does not concern the Council, as it is not referred to them.
	10. Mr. Love added to the Committee for providing money, and to take care of that business, and examine the state of the treasuries, and give an account to Council where the sums desired may be had.
	11. The present and former Treasurers-at-war to attend the Irish and Scotch Committee to-morrow.
	12. The petition of Denis Gauden, with the annexed warrant of Council, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	13. Mr. Scott to move the House that the Act prepared for the sale of fee-farm rents may be taken into consideration.
	14. The Commissioners in Ireland having addressed a letter to Council, for solution of questions arising on the articles made with the Earl of Ormond, upon the rendition of Dublin,—which they find an obstruction to the sequestration of several great estates in Ireland of persons sequestered for delinquency in England, which estates they have seized, but the sequestration or acquittal depends upon Parliament's resolution of the case, which they have stated and sent; —Council think fit that the original letter and paper, which states the question under the Commissioners' own hands, be reported to the House, and they moved to declare their resolution. [I. 66, pp. 398– 400.]
March 1. Whitehall.	Council of State to Lieut.-General Fleetwood. A major, two captains, three lieutenants, and six serjeants were employed for conducting 400 recruits from Col. Gibbon's regiment into Scotland, which being disbanded with the regiment, a month's pay is to be allowed them, in consideration of their travel and pains; 20l. having been paid them by our order at Yarmouth, when they were driven in there by stress of weather, there remains 54l. 4s. due. Order Mr. Hatter to pay the same to Major Audley, late major to the regiment, out of the 1,500l. paid him for raising and conducting recruits to Scotland, to be distributed amongst the said conductors, according to their respective proportions. [I. 97, p. 164.]
March 1. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Ordnance officers. As there are several brass guns at Upnor Castle fit for supplying men-of-war, order that they be speedily removed to your custody for furnishing ships, and send the same quantity of iron guns to the said castle in lieu thereof. [I. 97, p. 166.]
March 1. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Governor of Upnor Castle. To like effect, for delivery of the guns on demand. [I. 97, p. 167.]
March 1. Leghorn.	99. Charles Longland to Robert Blackburn, Westminster. hear the State is pleased to honour me with their commands here to see to their naval affairs; until I have my instructions, I can say no more than that I shall faithfully serve them. A month since, a letter was sent by the Great Duke to Parliament, complaining against Capt. Appleton for taking a French sattee coming into this port, and the concurrence of this factory was required; they accompanied the same with a remonstrance to Parliament, and my signature was earnestly demanded; but I answered it did not become me, nor any of our nation, to accuse the Parliament captains for what they had commission to do. Let me know how this business is relished at home, for my government in future. [1 page.]
March 2.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Any three of the committee appointed to meet the agent of the Count of Oldenburg to go out to give him audience.
	2. The letter and orders from Mr. Speaker referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, to ascertain what money Mr. Ryley has received, and how he has expended it.
	3. Mr. Peters to preach for Mr. Caryll, in Whitehall Chapel, on Lord's Day afternoon, until his return.
	4. The declaration and articles exhibited to Council by Lord Montgomery to be enclosed in the letter to the Commissioners in Ireland.
	5. The report from the Ordnance Committee, to whom it was referred to provide 1,000 tents for Scotland, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, to provide and send them.
	6. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to prepare an answer to the paper of the Spanish Ambassador, referred this day from Parliament.
	7. The paper given in by the agent of the Count of Oldenburg, returning thanks for the favour he has received from Parliament, by their granting a safeguard to his master, to be represented to the House by Sir Peter Wentworth.
	10. The hire of the chamber in which Col. Alex. MacDonnell is kept prisoner in the Gatehouse to be defrayed by Council, as well since his commitment as for the time to come, and the liberty of the prison to be allowed him.
	11. To represent to the House Council's opinion that the following persons ought to be appointed magistrates for the better government of Worcester, until the House shall give further order, viz., Fras. Franke, mayor, John Coucher, Hen. Ford, Edw. Elvins, Thos. Hacket, and Robt. Stirrup, aldermen, Theop. Alley, sheriff, and Capt. Thomas Melward, town clerk. [I. 66, pp. 402–404.]
March 2. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Governor of Shrewsbury. As the private soldiers of the Scotch army who were taken prisoners at Worcester, and are now in your custody, do not exceed 20, discharge them on taking the engagement, and allow them 20 days for returning. [I. 97, p. 168.]
March 2. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. As the two companies of foot newly landed from Jersey, under Capt. Thos. Hughes and Capt. Dover, are to march to Bristol for transportation to Ireland, in pursuance of the order of Parliament of 21 October last, advance 21 days' pay to the captains, according to the establishment of the forces in Scotland, to enable them to discharge their quarters in their march; and appoint 450l. more to be paid to the Treasurersat-war, and by them to Jas. Powell at Bristol, for payment of the said companies, according to our instruction. Mr. Powell will give you an account thereof, so that if any part of the 450l. remain in his hands after the companies are transported, it may be returned to the Treasurers-at-war. [I. 97, p. 169.]
[March] 2. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Lord General. We are informed that you have given a pass to Commissary-General Reynolds to come to England for his health, and that he is in a good measure recovered; being a person who has done good service there, and whose presence is still necessary, in the absence of the Lord' Deputy, we desire you to send him directions to continue there, notwithstanding your aforesaid pass, until further order. [I. 97, p. 170.]
March 2. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commissioners of Parliament in Ireland. We have received several letters from you and others, of your great care and diligence in carrying on the public service, and are glad to see it proceeds with such good success, and trust it will speedily come to a period. We have referred the matter of provisions to the Irish and Scotch Committee, from whom we doubt not but you have had information of their proceedings, in answer to your letters. [I. 97, pp. 171, 172.]
March 2. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commissioners in Ireland. Lord Montgomery of the Ardes petitions us for some allowance out of his estate in Ireland, now under sequestration, for subsistence of himself and family, and has also exhibited a declaration of the Lord-Lieutenant of Ireland, and some articles concerning himself, and affirms that he came in within the time limited. We send you the papers, and desire you will inform us whether there is anything before you by which it appears he has done anything that may forfeit the benefit of the said articles; this we the rather desire, as we find his name returned by you as one whose estate is to be confiscated, whereas by the articles, he understands he has liberty to compound; of this we also desire to be certified, that if he has not forfeited his articles, he may have that made good to him which was stipulated, he pretending to be at present under great necessities. [I. 97, p. 172.]
March 3.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. To declare to the Admiralty Judges that Council, by their last order for suspension of letters of reprisal, only intended that further captures should be forbidden, and not that the proceedings should be stopped as to ships taken before its date.
	2. The petitions of Lord Burgany [Abergavenny] and Anne Duchess of Hamilton, referred to the Committee for Examinations. Mr. Neville to acquaint the Lord General with the desires of the petitioners and know his opinion.
	3. The letter from the city of Dantzic, with the petition of James Wich, referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	4. The petition and papers of Capt. Lieven Van Ipre referred to the Admiralty Committee to report.
	5. The order of Council forbidding Mr. Fogg coming to Liverpool taken off.
	6. Col. Birch to reduce to writing the matter he verbally propounded to Council.
	10. The goods aboard the Dolphin belonging to Geo. Price, with the ship, to be freed from the seizure laid upon them by virtue of the Act declaring goods forfeited which are brought in Dutch bottoms after 1st Dec.
	11. The petition of Capt. Reeve Williams, on behalf of his brother, Capt. John Williams, prisoner at Jersey, referred to the Commissioners of the Great Seal, who are of the Council.
	12. The forfeiture laid upon the goods of Thos. Cox to be dispensed with, and his goods restored.
	13. The bonds entered into by the Countess Dowager of Carlisle and her sureties to be discharged, and the bonds delivered up.
	15. The letter read to be sent to the Queen of Sweden along with the agent going thither, to be presented to the House by Lord Commissioner Whitelock, and to be translated into Latin.
	16. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to consider of some fit person to be sent to Sweden as agent.
	17. The Committee for Money to consider where the sums payable to Wm. Davenport and Thos. Collins, as directed by Council's warrant to the late Treasurers-at-war, may be paid, the Treasury upon which that money was placed being all paid out. [I. 66, pp. 405–410.]
March 4.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	2. The petition of John Tottell and Robert Harding referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	4. The propositions and desires given in by the Lord Deputy of Ireland referred to the Irish and Scotch committee, who are to confer with him and report.
	5. Monday next appointed for considering the disposing of the Irish people in Ireland into foreign parts, and the members of Council who are in town to attend.
	6. The fleet to be enforced with an additional number of men for this year's service.
	7. The Admiralty Committee to consider how this supply may be had, and report on Monday.
	8. The said committee to take a review of the list of all the captains of the ships for this year's service, and present their opinion on Wednesday.
	9. Col. Blake to have a commission to command the fleet for nine months, in pursuance of the order of Parliament of 25 Feb. last.
	10. The consideration of another person to be general at sea respited. [I. 66, pp. 411, 412.]
March 4. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Bailiffs of Yarmouth. As several aldermen of Yarmouth have lately resigned, there may be a defect in the magistracy; it is of great concern to the welfare of that place that faithful and well-affected persons should be chosen to those places. Being informed that Jno. Arnold, Christ. Steygould, Jno. Harmer, Isaac Preston, Thos. Dunne, Jno. Albertre, and Nich. Cutting are fitly qualified to supply them, we recommend you at the next election to make choice of them, whereby you will not only perform an action to the advantage of yourselves and the corporation, but to the good liking of this Council. [I. 97, p. 175.]
March 4. Whitehall.	Council of State to Sir Jno. Wollaston and the rest of the late Treasurers-at-war. We understand that our warrant of 11 Feb. last, for payment of 7,312l. 10s. to Denis Gauden, merchant, for provisions delivered in Scotland, is not paid off, but respited, upon some doubts as to whether it can be paid in the manner expressed in such warrant, by reason whereof Gauden is exposed not only to the impairing of his credit, but also to great disappointment for money which he should issue for provisions undertaken by him for the army in Ireland. For prevention of such inconveniences, advance out of any moneys disposable by our order, 3,000l. to Mr. Gauden, upon credit of the said warrant, to be discounted when the whole sum comes to be paid, and so to be reimbursed to the treasury whence you advance it. [I. 97, p. 176.]
March 4. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. The Commissioners of Parliament in Ireland, by reason of the great straits of the forces in several parts there, were necessitated to take up money and charge bills of exchange upon the present Treasurers, which they cannot satisfy unless they receive your order for issuing money for that service. Grant them your warrant to pay the bills out of the present assessments of 90,000l. a month for Ireland, or to furnish there, by bills of exchange, letters of credit, &c., 10,000l. to be issued out by the said commissioners' warrant, or by the Commander-in-Chief in Ireland, or other person authorised to give warrants for pay of the said forces, &c., that the said treasurers may be thereby enabled to answer the bills charged, and may supply the remainder in Ireland, as soon as they have received so much out of the moneys appointed for the said service. [I. 97, pp. 177, 178.]
March 4. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. Col. Clerke's regiment entertained for Ireland being not yet transported, a month longer should be allowed them for their shipping and transportation; that they may not be burdensome to the places upon which they are quartered, order them one month's pay more, from the 8th inst. [I. 97, p. 178.]
March 5.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The letter to the Senate of Hamburg approved, and to be signed by the Lord President, and sent by the Resident of this commonwealth.
	2. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to compare the Latin and English copies of the letters to the Queen of Sweden and the Senate of Hamburg, and order the signing of the first by the Speaker, and of the latter by the Lord President of the Council.
	3. The Committee for Examinations to send for the person who printed an edition of the Act of Oblivion, other than what was printed by the printer for Parliament, either by summons or in safe custody, and to examine him concerning it.
	4. The Act concerning printing to be brought into Council on Wednesday.
	5. The allowance made to Geo. Vaux last year, as housekeeper in Whitehall, both as to his charge of cleansing the courts and lower galleries, and his care in the same, to be continued, and paid out of the exigent money of Council.
	6. So much of the report from the Admiralty Committee as relates to Sam. Burgis, late gunner in Upnor Castle, referred back to them.
	8. The Council to meet on Monday afternoon, about a business of great concernment.
	9. The Committee for French Business to have power to dispose of 50l. for the public service, which Mr. Frost is to pay.
	10, 11. The Dutch placeat brought this day to Council, and the paper from the Dutch Ambassador, referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs.
	12. The petition of Major Jas. Durham, for liberty to go to Ireland with his wife and family, on taking the engagement, referred to the Lord Deputy of Ireland, to grant the same if he thinks fit, on bond in 600l. upon the usual conditions.
	13. Thos. Whitton, Outstore Keeper of Chatham yard, to be discharged, and Robert Norman to succeed him.
	14. Mr. Adderley to officiate in the parish church of Chatham on the Lord's Day, until a minister is settled there, and preach once on board all the State's ships before their going out, after convenient notice given to him to do so.
	17. The report from the Committee for Examinations concerning Jas. Banks recommitted to them, to take the complaint in writing, and the names of the persons complained of.
	20. Order on the business concerning Martin Price, Thos. Griffin, Nich. Jordan, and Fras. Esmond, merchants, that they be left to take the benefit of their articles of Scilly, and if they would have anything more, they are to address Parliament, who only have the power to relieve in such cases.
	21. Lieut.-Col. Jas. Lunden to have liberty to go upon his parole for three months, on giving his bond in 1,000l. more, on the usual conditions, and that he will surrender to the Commander-in-Chief in Scotland.
	25. The letter and warrant from the Irish and Scotch Committee for advancing 5,500l. to Denis Gauden to be signed and sent. [I. 66, pp. 414–419.]
March 5. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Revenue Committee. A petition has been presented to us by Rich. Lovell, servant to Henry Stuart, third son of the late King, stating that the allowance of 1,500l. a year made to the said Henry has not been paid lately, by reason of which there is great difficulty in making daily provision for him and his attendants, and that if some speedy course be not taken for their supply, it will not be possible for them to subsist, and continue together in the performance of their duty. Finding that the allowance was appointed by Parliament to be paid out of the revenue, we recommend it to your care that the arrears of the said pension may be paid, and that for the future, it may be constantly furnished as it shall become due. [I. 97, p. 179.]
March 5. Whitehall.	Council of State to the justices of the grand sessions for co. Cardigan. We send you a complaint from Thos. Lloyd, Reynold Jenkins, Rich. Jones, and Morgan Jenkins, of co. Cardigan, prisoners in Cardiff Castle, as also from John Jones, of miscarriages in taking the examinations of the said prisoners, of which they offer to make proof; we desire you to examine the grievance, and the parties on both sides, and make a return thereof to us with all speed. [I. 97, p. 180.]
March 5. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Phil. Jones, Col. Edw. Prichard, Bussy Mansyle, Capt. Griffith [Richard and John Lloyd and John Lewis, justices of peace for co. Cardigan], &c. Having considered the case and petition of Thos. Lloyd, Reynold Jenkins, Rich. Jones, and Morgan Jenkins, prisoners in Cardiff Castle, accused as abettors in the late rising of the countrymen in co. Cardigan, as also the examinations taken by you, &c., and finding nothing positively charged upon Lloyd, Jones, and Morgan Jenkins, we desire that,— upon their bond in 400l. each, with two sureties in 200l. each, to be forthcoming, if summoned within 12 months, and not to act any thing prejudicial to the Parliament or present Government,—they may be discharged; but if you see cause, you can bind over the prosecutors and witnesses to give evidence against them at the next grand sessions for the county.
	As the examinations seem to make proof against Reynold Jenkins as being actually engaged in the rising, and as there is no High court of justice yet in being, you are to continue him in prison until the said sessions, and bind over the prosecutor and witnesses to prosecute and give evidence against him. [I. 97, pp. 181, 182; I. 66, p. 417.]
March 6. Dunkirk.	107. Capt. Ignatius Brett to [Lord Inchiquin]. I have received yours by Mr. Parker, requiring an account of your frigate, the Diligent, and I now believe you the rightful owner of her. Being short of money, I was forced to take up 500l. upon the gross adventure, paying 50l. per cent., and in the voyage, took the Golden Sun of Enchuysen, a prize laden with red herrings and other goods, value 5,000l., but she was forced into Flushing by contrary winds; as however they were all English goods, they can be recovered, and I hereby give you or your deputy full power to receive or compound for them as you shall think fit. I am in advance, but only want payment when I have taken some prizes. Your frigate would have been sold, contrary to my desire, at an under value, if Mr. Parker had not come in time. He and I however have prevailed that, upon the payment of 100 guilders here, or at Flushing, within a month or six weeks, she shall be restored; at present she is worth above 700l., being fitted with cables, masts, and fit for war, which she did not possess upon my coming into her, but was rather a wreck; 1,300 guilders more will fit and victual her for sea, and I doubt not but the first voyage will far surmount the aforesaid sums. [1 page.]
March 8.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	2. Fras. Godolphin to be bailed, on his bond in 1,000l. on the usual conditions, and taking the engagement.
	3. Col. Jno. Buller to have the liberty of the Tower, and the same to be signified to the Lieutenant.
	5. General Blake to order all the ships in the river and the Hope, taken up for the service of the State or for convoys, to repair to the Downs, and there receive his orders.
	6. The Admiralty Committee to consider as to building a fort at Chatham, and report on Wednesday.
	7. Also to order men, guns, and ammunition to be put on board the Sovereign.
	8. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consider the condition of the castles and forts in the Isle of Wight, their number of men, and how those insufficiently manned may be supplied, and report.
	9. The remainder of the articles to be offered the Dutch Ambassadors to be considered to-morrow.
	10. So many of the articles as are already passed to be translated into Latin by Mr. Milton.
	11. The paper given in from the Dutch Ambassadors referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs. [I. 66, pp. 422–425.]
March 8. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Mayor and Aldermen of Hull. The place of lecturer in your town being void, and knowing John Cann, who for sometime past preached amongst you, to be a man unblameable in his life, painful in his ministry, and very acceptable to many godly people there, and a man of approved good affections to the present Government, we recommend him to you to be lecturer, with the former allowance and maintenance; also that for his further convenience, he may have the house formerly occupied by [Wm.] Style. [I. 97, p. 183; I. 66, p. 415.]
March 8. Whitehall.	Council of State to Capt. Moulton, commander at Portsmouth. In case the Worcester and Mermaid touch at Portsmouth, order their commanders to go back to the Downs forthwith, notwithstanding any former order for their going to the southward; upon their arrival in the Downs, they are to send notice thereof to us. With note of like letters to Capt. Coppin, Commander-in-Chief in the Downs, on board the Entrance, and to Capt. Blake and Daniel Ely, Deputy Collectors for Prize Goods at Plymouth. [I. 97, p. 184.]
March 8. Louvre, Paris.	108. Warrant by Charles II. to the Treasurers of the Exchequer to pay to Wm. Curtius, continued in his office as agent to Germany, 40s. a day, with such further sum as may be necessary for extraordinary charges, from the death of Charles I. until further order. [Copy, 1 page.]
March 9.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The money due to the Marshals of Chester and Stafford, ordered by warrant of Council to be paid them by the late Treasurersat-war, out of the 20,000l. appointed for the pay of 4,000 foot for three months, to be paid by Mr. Frost out of the exigent money of Council, the said 20,000l. having been disbursed.
	2. The petition of Andrew Rickard, William Williams, and Benj. Gunston and Company, referred to the Admiralty Committee, and if the ship mentioned is fit for service, and it is necessary to take on any more, they are to agree for its hire.
	3. Mr. Frost to procure all the proclamations made in the time of Kings James and Charles.
	4. The articles read in answer to the 36 articles offered to Council by the Dutch Ambassadors to be translated into Latin by Thursday.
	5. The paper of demands to be brought in to-morrow, and read the first business.
	6. The proposals of Col. Sydenham referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, who are to sit to-morrow at 7 a.m. and confer with him thereupon, and send some able engineer to view the places which are defective and easy to land upon, and to report.
	7. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to consider how Mr Weckerlyn may be employed in foreign transactions, and to report.
	8. Lord Commissioner Whitelock, Col. Wauton, Mr. Nevill, Earl of Pembroke, Mr. Carew, Mr. Holland, and Col. Purefoy to be a committee to receive from the agent sent from the Hanse Towns what he has to offer, and report.
	9. Thursday next appointed for the said committee to meet the said agent in the Treaty Chamber at Whitehall; Mr. Frost to send him notice hereof, and Sir Oliver Fleming to bring him to the audience.
	10. The Admiralty Committee to consider what commerce or communication should be held with Bordeaux or any other parts of France, especially in reference to the importation of wine, and so to report.
	11. The papers sent to Council by Mons. Barrière to be returned to him. [I. 66, pp. 427–430.]
March 10.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The Admiralty Committee to consider how the James may be set forth for this summer's service, and give order.
	2. The report from the Irish and Scotch Committee on the case of Capt. Jno. Williams referred back to them.
	3. The Lion to go as convoy to the merchant ships bound for Hamburg, and Gen. Blake to give order accordingly.
	4. The Admiralty Committee to confer with the Navy Committee as to buying the guns in Mr. Browne's storehouse, and if necessary, to contract with him for them.
	6. The Admiralty Committee to peruse the list of ships in the Thames, sent from the Trinity House, and appoint the setting out of such as they see cause.
	7. Order, on the order of Parliament of 25 February last, that Daniel Lisle be recommended to the House as a fit person to be employed to the Queen of Sweden; Lord Commissioner Whitelock to report this, as also the letter to be sent to Her Majesty.
	8. John Durie appointed to accompany Daniel Lisle in his journey to the Queen of Sweden. [I. 66, pp. 433–436.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Whetham, Governor of Portsmouth. Brass guns being wanted, all those in Portsmouth garrison are to be sent to the Tower, and for the supply of your garrison, the Ordnance officers will deliver you 8 iron culverins and 6 demi-culverins with carriages. [I. 97, p. 185.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commissioners at Trinity House. An account should be taken of all ships in the Thames that are or may be speedily made fit for the service; make a list of them, and return it to us by Friday. [I. 97, p. 186.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Governor and storekeeper at Hull. There are several brass ordnance in your garrison which may be spared, except one cannon of eight and a brass basiliscoe; send them up to the Tower forthwith, whether serviceable or not. We have sent orders to other places for sending their brass guns to Hull, to be forwarded to London, and desire you to send them as they arrive. [I. 97, p. 187.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to Lieut.-Col. Roseworm. A survey should be taken of the defects of the fortifications of the Isle of Wight, and of such places as are easy to be landed at, and where as yet there are no fortifications; repair to the island, view the defects, and assist Col. Sydenham, the Governor, in erecting forts, and making repairs necessary for the defence and safety of the island. [I. 97, p. 188.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to Lieut.-General Fleetwood. For better securing the Isle of Wight, five companies of foot and a troop of horse are to be sent thither, to be added to those already there; order that they march forthwith to Portsmouth, and thence pass into the island. [I. 97, p. 189.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Sydenham. Some of the earth works in the Isle of Wight having decayed and fallen, especially at Sandham Fort, for reasons of public concernment they should be repaired; some forts should be erected in the north part of the island, where there is easy landing, and an earth fort on a hill which commands Cowes Castle, without which it is represented as being untenable. We shall send an engineer to view the works, and consider of the aptest places for the building of forts, and to advise and assist you in the ordering thereof. That no time may be lost, we desire you, in the interim, to cause such of the said repairs and forts as you conceive necessary to be instantly put in hand, as well by your soldiers that are there, as by those who will be sent to you, and by the country people, whom you are to call in and encourage to that work, conducing to their own security.
	Declare to the commanders and officers in that island, that we desire them to excite their soldiers to ply diligently the perfecting of those repairs, and erecting of those forts, according to orders from you, and those that superintend the same. Carry on the work as frugally as you can, but what you find necessary to disburse thereupon, and for the encouragement of the soldiers to be employed, we shall reimburse, on your transmitting us an account. Provide at the readiest and cheapest hand such wheels and carriages as are wanted there, and the charge of them shall also be allowed. [I. 97, pp. 190, 191.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. 100l. should be advanced to Dr. Philip Carteret, Advocate General to the army in Ireland, on account of his pay there. Grant your warrant to the Treasurers-at-war to pay it out of the 100,000l. which, by ours of 4 March last, you are desired to order them to send over to Ireland, or to furnish the money for his pay there, and to acquaint the Commissioners of Parliament in Ireland or their deputy treasurers therewith, that it may be defalked out of his arrears, and growing pay. [I. 97, p. 192.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Heane. We have received yours concerning soldiers who refused the service of Ireland, and have thought fit that they should be sent over to England, and disbanded here. [I. 97, p. 193.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Bingham. Upon considering yours as to the falling down of part of the wall of Cornet Castle, which is 174 feet in length and 10 in breadth, we think it should be rebuilt, and desire you to go in hand with it; the charge, not exceeding 150l., you are to defray out of the revenue of the State in the island, and in case that amount shall not be sufficient, order shall be given for more. We will send for Major Harrison on Mr. Saumarez's petition and make fit order. [I. 97, p. 194.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Militia Commissioners for co. York, and the Governor of Clifford's Tower. As there are several brass ordnance in the city of York, which should be removed to the Tower, order that they be sent to the Governor or storekeeper at Hull, to be transmitted to London. [I. 97, p. 195.]
March 10. Whitehall.	Council of State to Quartermaster-General Ireton. Send all the brass ordnance in Landguard Fort, as well serviceable as unserviceable, to the Tower, to be disposed of to some other service. [I. 97, p. 196.]
March 11.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	3. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consider as to supplying accommodations to Daniel Lisle, for himself and company going to the Queen of Sweden.
	4, 5. Mr. Weckerlyn appointed assistant secretary to the Committee for Foreign Affairs, and to have 200l. a year from Council, payable quarterly by Mr. Frost, as to the rest of the persons employed by Council.
	6. Capt. Gilson to be captain of the ship in which Gen. Blake goes to sea this summer.
	7. The demands agreed upon at Council, with the answer to the 36 articles, to be delivered to the Dutch Ambassadors on Monday, by the Commissioners of Council.
	8. The papers given in by the resident from the Hanse Towns referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs, to prepare an answer and report to Council with speed.
	9. The letter of Col. Whetham from Portsmouth referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	10, 13. Also the petitions of Sir Wm. Fleming and of Hen. Boswell.
	11. The Earl of Carnwarth to have the liberty of the Tower until he can procure bail for his good behaviour, and then to have the liberty of the city.
	12. The business of Capt. Ball's apprehension and escape referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	14. Wm. Spittlehouse to be keeper of the Orchard Gate leading into Channel Row, and to have the same allowance as was paid to Mr. Henrick.
	16. The papers agreed upon to be delivered to the Dutch Ambassadors by the Commissioners on Monday at eight a.m., in Whitehall; notice to be given to their Lordships, and Sir Oliver Fleming to bring them to the audience.
	17. Capt. John Lambert, commander of the Ruby, to be removed to the Convertine, in the room of Capt. Holding, who is appointed to the Ruby. [I. 66, pp. 439–442.]
March 11. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Ordnance officers. Though all necessary orders were issued for setting out the ships for this summer's guard, there is not that diligence in execution that the state of affairs requires. We do not know what account you will be able to give of this neglect, which may have dangerous effects, and therefore require you to use all possible diligence in discharging your duty, according to directions from Parliament or us, that no accident may occur for want of the timely appearance of our ships in a fit equipage at sea. [I. 97, p. 197.]
March 11. Whitehall.	Council of State to General Blake. There is extraordinary occasion for hastening forth the summer fleet, and we are very sensible of the backwardness thereof. Repair to Deptford, Woolwich, and Chatham, and examine the cause, and certify us in whom the fault lies, and we will endeavour to remedy it by removing those officers you shall find negligent, and placing honest men in their room, and using such other remedy as shall be most expedient. [I. 97, p. 198.]
March 11. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. The present state of affairs requires that the fleet for the summer guard should have appeared in a fit equipage at sea before this, but notwithstanding all directions' and orders have been issued, there is yet great backwardness. We shall endeavour to ascertain the cause, and deal with those who neglect their trust in a business of such great weight. Meantime use your utmost diligence for expediting the fleet, seeing the great consequence of that service for the safety of the commonwealth. [I. 97, p. 199.]
March 12.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The order of Parliament of 10 March, as to setting ships to sea, referred to the Admiralty Committee, who are to execute what is referred thereby to Council, to meet to-morrow at 7 a.m., and to consider as to sending a supply of shipping and men to the fleet at Barbadoes.
	2. A warrant to be sent to Geo. Withers, that the care of the library at James's House is committed to the Council of State by Parliament.
	3. The petition of Hugh Moone, Rich. Flight, and Mich. Hatcher referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, to report what should be done for their relief.
	4. The letter of Rowland Dawkins from Carmarthen referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	5, 6, 10, 12. The petitions of Thos. Cockerell, of Hull, and others, of Andrew Jackson, of John Parker, merchant, and of Thos. Bowyer, John Robinson, and others, referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs.
	7. Col. Stapley added to the Committee for Examinations.
	8. The messenger that is to go to York and Hull, to see the ordnance sent from Clifford's Tower to Hull, and thence shipped away, to be furnished with money by Mr. Frost, out of the contingencies of Council.
	9. Two months of his allowance to be paid to Lieut.-Col. Roseworm as engineer by Mr. Frost, to enable him to go upon his service.
	11. Robert Mackrearie, prisoner in York Castle, to be delivered back to his master, Alderman Jas. Brooke of York, he giving security for his good behaviour.
	13. Col. Rainsford, prisoner in the Gatehouse, to be sent to the Tower for treason, he having been engaged in several designs against the commonwealth, and upon his removal thither, to have the liberty of the Tower.
	15. The petition of Charles Longland referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	17. The list of ships from the Trinity House Commissioners referred to the Admiralty Committee, who are to consider how the merchant ships now in the Thames may be tallowed, and have their guns mounted.
	18. Mr. Carew and Mr. Love added to the Admiralty Committee.
	19. The petition and paper of Jane Sneyd, widow, to be recommended to the Lords Commissioners of the Great Seal, to proceed according to justice.
	20. The two letters of Capt. Clarke, from the Reserve in Galloway Bay, referred to the Admiralty and Irish and Scotch Committees, who are to confer together thereon.
	21. The Countess of Lauderdale, with her daughter and two maids, to have liberty to repair to the Earl of Lauderdale, prisoner in the Tower, at their pleasure.
	22. The petition of Marie Eldred, widow, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, to report what should be done for her relief.
	23. The salary allowed the two porters at the gate to be continued, and paid out of the exigent money of Council.
	25. So much of the petition of Lieut.-Col. Finch as relates to having 150 tents out of Chester Castle referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	27. Order—on the petition of the Muscovy merchant adventurers to Greenland, setting forth that their predecessors discovered Greenland with great industry and hazard, and have, by encouragement of several grants, confirmed in Parliament, maintained the whale fishing there at great expense against all comers, but are disturbed therein by persons who had no share in the discovery, yet cause quarrels and bloodshed, and requesting Council to induce Parliament to end the differences; which petition was referred to a committee, who have heard the case of the company claiming sole right to the fishing, and of the free adventurers, claiming common right as Englishmen—that the case be left to law, or to Parliament, when their weighty affairs permit them to consider it.
	Meantime, as the whale fishing is of consequence, and should not by dissensions be allowed to fall into the hands of strangers, the parties are so to order their fishing as to avoid occasions of interrupting each other, that the fishing may be carried on fully in all places, and oil and fins imported for home use and for export.
	That the ships sent be strong for defence against strangers, and that each party assist the other in case of hostility. Whosoever gives the first occasion of quarrel to be severely proceeded against on returning, and tried by law. Copies of this order to be given to both parties.
	28. Lord Bargeny [Abergavenny ?] to have liberty to go to Scotland, and reside there for some time, on bond with good security upon the usual conditions, giving an account to the Commissioners there of his arrival and stay, and rendering himself prisoner to them on summons.
	29. Order—on the petition and articles of Thos. Ducket, Robert Cassell, and others, late Militia Commissioners for cos. Cambridge and Hunts, against Capt. Robert Sparrow,—that the Militia Commissioners of the said counties call the parties concerned before them, examine the complaints, and proceed according to the Militia Act; and if they cannot settle the difference, report to Council. The parties against whom the charge is made required to attend the said Commissioners on summons. [I. 66, pp. 446–454.]
March 13.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	2. Lord Commissioner Lisle to sign letters as president for the time being. [I. 66, p. 456.]
March 13. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commissioners of the Trinity House. We have received your list of the ships in the Thames, and excuse the imperfections, on account of the shortness of the time; but we require the tonnage of all those above 200 tons, and how many guns they carry. Require their owners to rig and tallow them, and to mount their guns, that they may be ready for service on occasion. If any of the owners are refractory or delay to comply, certify us, that further order may be taken. As this is an affair of consequence, we recommend it to your special diligence and care. [I. 97, p. 200.]
March 13. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commissioners in Scotland. Having upon the reference from Parliament taken into consideration how necessary it is, in this present juncture, to have as great a number of ships in readiness for the service as we can, and finding a want of ordnance, we desire that the brass guns at Dumbarton and Stirling may be put on board some of the men-of-war on that coast, and sent to London. Those at Dumbarton are 1 demi cannon of eight, two demi cannon of seven, two demi culverins, 4 sackers, and 1 minion. At Stirling these are 3 culverins, 2 demi culverins, 7 sackers, 4 minions, and 2 twelve-pounders. With these send 4 of the worst brass battering pieces now at Leith. There are a great number of loose iron guns lying along the Scottish coast; order the getting them together and shipping them with the others; or if they cannot be ready so soon, speed them after with a convoy. [I. 97, pp. 201, 202.]
March 13. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Sheriff of York. Robt. Croseley, a Scotchman, is in your custody at York Castle, for being in the engagement at Worcester. Having received a petition from Alderman Jas. Brooke, in whose service he was at the time of his apprehension, praying for his release, that he may again serve him, or be permitted to return to Scotland, you are to dismiss him, and deliver him to his master, he giving security for his future good behaviour. [I. 97, p. 203.]
March 13. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Committee. You will see by the enclosed list what guns are in the possession of Mr. Browne and Mr. Folio; as there is much occasion for brass guns for the fleet, appoint some person to view the same, and contract with the owners for such as you find fit for sea service. [I. 97, p. 204.]
March 13. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. We find by the petition of Lieut.-Col. Finch, that when the regiment of Col. Duckenfield was drawn from Chester and other places towards the service of Worcester, he put some men into Chester to do the duty of the garrison, in the absence of those who were drawn off; that he paid them for the time they were so employed 28l. 0s. 10d. out of the money advanced him for pay of the regiment which marched, and that upon the passing of his account, this sum was disallowed. As the money was expended for a service of so much importance at that time, both to the commonwealth and Chester, and wherein he expressed much care and faithfulness, we desire that it be allowed and passed with the rest.
	Being also informed that he and Major Duckenfield, since their being entertained in the service of Ireland, have not received the pay of lieutenant-colonel and major, but only of captains,—whereas by our agreement with them, upon which they with their companies undertook the service, it was stipulated they should have their former pay,—order the paying of what has grown due to them upon account of those pays, from the time of their first entertainment to this time. [I. 97, pp. 205, 206.]
March 13. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Customs officers in the several ports. As it is necessary, in this present conjuncture of affairs, that all the shipping of this nation should be fit and ready to be employed for the common defence, and to prevent all attempts of affront to be put upon us, we require you to make a survey of all the ships in your port, and the members thereof, and certify us how many there are of 200 tons and above, as also their names, what guns they are fit to bear, how many they have, in what readiness they are for service, and in what time they can be fully completed. You are also, in our name, to require the owners to cause them to be forthwith rigged and tallowed, and their guns mounted; and, if any will not comply, certify their names to us, that further order may be taken therein. [I. 97, pp. 207, 208.]
March 15.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The business of settling a minister at Hull to be considered next Friday.
	2. The Nightingale with her goods, taken by Capt. Smith, by virtue of letters of reprisal granted to the administrators of Paulet, to be restored to Jno. Peterson, master, as she was taken many days after the order for the suspension of such letters was issued.
	3. The Irish and Scotch Committee to speed away the three months' pay that is to be sent to Scotland.
	4. Also to dispatch such provisions as have been written for from Scotland, that they may seasonably arrive.
	5. The Admiralty Committee to consider what ships are fit for the guard of the eastern and western parts of Scotland, and advise with the Commissioners lately come from thence.
	6. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consult with the Lord General as to carrying on the business against the Highlands, and to prepare necessaries.
	7. Also to consider as to providing 2,000l. for defraying the expenses of the Commissioners in Scotland, to be paid to Mr. Frost, for answering bills sent him by them.
	8. The Admiralty Committee to direct the commander of the Lion to take Daniel Lisle and his retinue on board, and land them at Hamburg.
	9. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to prepare an answer to the papers given in by the agent from the Hanse Towns.
	12. Mr. Rowe to give up and cancel the bond entered into by Capt. Philip Morris and his sureties.
	20. Major Jas. Mercer to be permitted to go on parole to Scotland, and render himself there to the Commander-in-Chief, within 21 days after his arrival, on giving security in 600l. on the usual conditions.
	24. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consider where money may be speedily had for the exigencies of Council.
	25. In case the Earl of Bridgewater desires Holt Castle to remain in his possession, or to dispose thereof to any other, he or the purchaser is to give security, by bond in 4,000l. with two sureties, that it shall not be made use of to the prejudice of Parliament, or otherwise it is left to him to demolish it, and the materials will be allowed him according to his petition. [I. 66, pp. 458–462.]
March 15. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Ordnance officers. There being a want of carriages for supplying the men of war appointed for the summer guard, contract for 500 ship carriages for guns, at the best and cheapest rates you can, to be delivered with all possible expedition. [I. 97, p. 208.]
March 15. Whitehall.	109. Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. That there may be no impediment for want of victuals by the ships of war, in their prosecution of the service in this conjuncture, give special order to the Navy Victuallers to put the full proportion of beer and all other provisions into all the State's ships ordered for the guard of the seas this summer. [Also I. 97, p. 209.]
March 15. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Victuallers. Having thought fit, upon the present conjuncture of affairs, to reinforce the ships of war ordered for the summer guard, make speedy provision of victuals at London and Chatham for 2,500 men, besides the 7,500 already ordered. [I. 97, p. 210.]
March 15. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. The James and Sun prize, now fitting at Portsmouth, should be added to the summer guard. Order the hastening and fitting them for sea; they are ready to take in their victuals, and only stay for orders to receive it. [I. 97, p. 211.]
March 15. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. The Sovereign and Resolution are to be added to the summer guard; cause them to be fitted forth to sea with all expedition. [I. 97, p. 212.]
March 15. Whitehall.	Council of State to Capt. Jno. Taylor, commander of the Laurel frigate. Having ordered that the money to be sent to Scotland shall be carried on board your frigate, you are to bring her into Lee Road forthwith to receive it. [I. 97, p. 212.]
March 16.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Col. Wm. Flower to be discharged from custody.
	2, 3. The petitions of Fras. Godolphin and of Jno. Frederick, and other merchants of London, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	4, 5. Also the letters of Capt. Badiley, of the Paragon, in Cadiz Bay, and of Capt. Peacock, of the Tiger, near Harwich.
	7. The petition of Edw. Annesley, storekeeper and proof master in the Armoury Office, Tower, referred to the Ordnance Committee, to report out of what treasury the money due to him may be paid.
	8, 9, 16. The petitions of Thos. Taylour, of Ryde, Isle of Wight, and of the inhabitants of Jersey, and of John Harris, merchant of London, and John Gorges, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	10. That of George Fisher to the Ordnance Committee.
	11. That of Wm. Legg, keeper of the State's wardrobe, to the Committee for Examinations, to consider what salary should be allowed him.
	12. Col. Wauton and Mr. Holland added to the Committee for Examinations.
	13. That committee to consider what is fit to be given to Mr. Kennersley for his former good services to the public.
	14. Mr. Holland, Lord Commissioner Whitelock, Mr. Love, Mr. Scott, and Col. Wauton to be a committee to consider the petition of Anne Prichard, with reference to a house of hers in Wallingford Castle, and to report.
	15. Mr. Rainsford, prisoner in the Gatehouse, to be discharged, on bond in 1,000l., with two sureties in 500l. each, on the usual terms.
	17. Mr. Frost to peruse the bills brought him from time to time by the keepers of Major-Gen. O'Neill and Col. Macdonnell, and to pay such sums as he shall judge fit.
	18. The petition of Thos. Burgh referred to the Admiralty Committee, who are to inquire what proceedings have been had thereupon in the Admiralty Court, and to report.
	20. The order concerning Capt. Jno. Williams to stand, with addition that the evidence against him be returned to Council.
	26. Note of warrants brought in from the Irish and Scotch Committee, for sending to Ireland the provisions obstructed by reason of the plague in Liverpool.
	27. Like note concerning the appointing a ship at Bristol to waft over the provisions of consequence to Waterford. [I. 66, pp. 464– 468.]
March 16. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commissioners in Scotland. We have referred your representation of things necessary to be provided for carrying on the military operations to the Irish and Scotch Committee. Your colleagues who brought it having also represented to Parliament and us the great activeness of the Presbytery of the province of Edinburgh, and of Sir Jas. Stuart, late Provost of that city, upon a Kirk interest, to disturb and hinder the proceedings there for the settlement of the affairs of that nation, Parliament made the enclosed order. In pursuance thereof, we desire, in case Sir James Stuart, the Presbytery, or any others continue to interrupt your proceedings, that you will take such order for prevention of the effects of their endeavours as you find most conducible to that end, whether by sending them to England, restraining them there, or otherwise, which we leave to your judgment, only desiring your especial care of this particular, it having been observed that it has a great influence upon the people, by making them disaffected, and has much retarded the progress of the affairs of the commonwealth there. [I. 97, pp. 213, 214.]
March 16. Whitehall.	Council of State to Capt. Saltonstall, commander of the Lion. You are to receive Dan. Lisle and his retinue on board, give him your best accommodation, as becomes a person of his quality, and transport him to Hamburg, he being employed upon special service for the State. [I. 97, p. 214.]
March 16. Whitehall.	Council of State to Major Evelyn, Governor of Wallingford Castle. There being several brass ordnance in your garrison, which may be spared for supplying the navy, deliver them to Commissary John Phipps to be brought to the Tower. [I. 97, p. 215.]
March 16. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Duckenfield. We send a complaint from Jas. Banks, of the Isle of Man, concerning some unjust and cruel passages exercised upon him by divers persons there in 1648; examine the persons concerned, and certify us, unless Banks and the other parties settle the business amongst themselves. [I. 97, p. 216.]
March 16. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Scroope. Having ordered Thos. Newbury to receive and send to the Tower all the brass ordnance in the western garrisons, deliver all those you have in your custody at Bristol. [I. 97, p. 217.]
March 16. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Kelsey, Governor of Dover, and the Mayor there. Upon consideration of the return made by you in the case of John Whetstone, postmaster of Dover, we have thought fit to discharge him; you are therefore to nominate a fit person to succeed him. [I. 97, p. 217.]
March 16/26. Paragon, Genoa Roads.	110. Capt. Rich. Badiley to the [Navy Commissioners]: Since my last of 4/14 Feb., I have been on my passage from Cadiz; stopped at Alicant six days for the merchantmen's business, and left the 21st ult. A little before that, the Vice-Admiral of France, with his ship of 50 pieces of ordnance, met the William and Thomas and the Lewis, and having passed a broadside or two together, the Frenchman left our ships, which went into Iversey, and sent to desire that I would call for them, which I did, and took the William and Thomas under convoy; but the other, having fish on board, put it to the venture, and went alone.
	We chased and came up with several Hollanders, but could not meet with any Frenchmen; they heard we were coming along that coast, and so plucked in their horn, and got into Toulon, where they were in a panic lest our six ships were coming in there to land men, and endeavour their destruction. They have put themselves in a defensive posture, and got their ships into the Mould. I suppose a guilty conscience dictated to them they deserved no better at our hands, and thus made that stir. As affairs stand, they cannot set forth such a strength but that ten or eight of our best frigates may master them, and keep them in. The French have lately taken the Welcome, of 18 guns, in her way between Lisbon and here. I have sent the Phœnix to Leghorn, with the William and Thomas, and shall follow with the ships here, viz., the Employment, Harry Bonadventure, and Victory, bound that way, and so up to the Levant.
	When near Majorca, on the 14th ult., our frigates fetched up an Algiers man-of-war, out of which I took the English captives, by virtue of the article in my general instructions giving me command to take all Englishmen out of any shipping belonging to foreign states or princes. [1½ pages.]
March 17.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The petition of William Franklin, of the Tower of London, referred to the Ordnance Committee.
	2, 4. The petitions of Major Thos. Rippon, and of Jane, widow of Col. Fras. Rowe, slain in the service of Ireland, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	3. The petition of Aquila Wikes, keeper of the Gatehouse, referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	5. The Admiralty Committee to consider how the shipping of the nation may be put into a posture to be fit to serve upon any occasion.
	6. The petition of Mr. Winslow referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs.
	7. Lieut.-Col. Mason to attend the Irish and Scotch Committee to-morrow.
	8. To answer the petition of Lieut.-Col. Jackson that Council do not think fit to give way for his raising of a regiment at present.
	9. Col. Wauton and Mr. Bond to consider where 120l. may be had for the service of the Isle of Wight, and report to-morrow.
	10. Dr. Walker to attend the Admiralty Committee on Friday.
	11. The paper from the Dutch Ambassadors, concerning the Abraham, seized by letters of marque granted to the administrators of Paulet, referred to the — Committee, who are to confer with Dr. Walker.
	14. The petition of Capt. Wm. Jacket and partners referred to the Admiralty Judges, to state the matter of fact out of the proofs now before them. [I. 66, pp. 472–474.]
March 17. Whitehall.	Council of State to Geo. Gosnell and Jno. Robinson, Ipswich. We have received your particulars of the ships at Ipswich, and approve your diligence, and the readiness of the owners and masters to serve if there be occasion. We are not willing to put them to unnecessary trouble, or to interrupt the course of their trade, and therefore, having been informed of their number and strength, they are to be permitted to go on their voyage without further stay, and you are to signify this to them. [I. 97, p. 218.]
March 17 Whitehall.	Council of State to the Militia Commissioners for co. Cambridge. We send a complaint against Capt. Robert Sparrow and the officers of his troop, concerning abuses committed by them in the county. Call the parties before you, and proceed according to the Militia Act, and in case you cannot settle the difference, send us a statement of the facts with your opinion. With note of a similar letter to co. Huntingdon. [I. 97, p. 219.]
March 17. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. By reason of contrary winds, the five companies of foot to be transported for Ireland, under Lieut.-Col. Finch, have been so long kept at the waterside, that the 1,400l we ordered you to pay to Chas. Walley, of Chester, for their pay, and month's advance at shipping, is nearly expended; as the wind continues contrary, their growing pay still runs on, and besides, there will be lacking 700l. for their three months' advance. Order 800l. more to be paid to the Treasurers-at-war, and by them to Walley, for them, and desire the said Treasurers to give speedy notice to Walley that the money is ordered, so that in case a fair wind should present before they pay him, he may be encouraged to take it up on credit, and send them away. In the first six weeks' pay advanced to Finch's company, you ordered him and Major Duckenfield only captains' pay. Allow them pay as lieutenantcolonel and major, and order it to be paid to Capt. Philip Eyton for their use. [I. 97, pp. 220, 221.]
March 17. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commander-in-Chief of the forces at Durham. We lately ordered you to dismiss the Scotch prisoners in restraint in the county, but on further consideration, we have thought fit that they should be detained till further orders. [I. 97, p. 222.]
March 17. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. Parliament, in the last establishment of pay for the forces, made provision for payment of 6s. a day to the Governor of Chester, which garrison for the present is supplied with part of Col. Berkstead's regiment, commanded by one of the field officers. As there should be a governor appointed for Carnarvon, we have thought fit, by advice of the Lord General, to transfer the pay allowed for the Governor of Chester to the Governor of Carnarvon; we desire you to issue your warrant for payment of 6s. a day to Col. Mason, who, by a commission from his Excellency, is appointed Governor of Carnarvon, and let the like pay be continued to him in course with the rest of the army. [I. 97, p. 223.]
March 17. Whitehall.	Council of State to Chas. Walley. We have received three accounts of money disbursed by you, viz.: for freight of the oatmeal bought of Capt. Whitworth; for pay of the recruits of Col. Hunck's regiment during their lying at the waterside; and for transporting them and others to Ireland; and have given order for payment of what remains due to you upon them to Commissary Wm. Dobbins. That all accounts of money between the State and you may be cleared, you are to repair to London, after you have shipped away Col. Finch's company for Ireland, and bring your issues and vouchers for all payments. [I. 97, p. 224.]
March 18.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The Earl of Rothes to be discharged from the Tower, on giving security himself in 4,000l., with two sureties in 2,000l. each, that he shall not go out of the limits of the late lines of communication about the city of London, and upon the usual terms.
	2. Wednesday appointed to consider what to do about the prisoners of war in the Tower, and the rest of the prisoners about town.
	3. Sir Hen. Vane, Mr. Martin, Mr. Corbett, Lords Commissioners Whitelock and Lisle, and Mr. Scott to be a committee to draw an Act, in pursuance of the order of Parliament, in reference to the business of Scotland; Whitelock to take care thereof.
	4. William Blackstone to be bailed, on bond in 1,000l., with two sureties in 500l. each, on the usual conditions.
	5. Order, on consideration of the present state of the stores as to the Eastland commodities, that the Admiralty Committee consider how a supply thereof may be made.
	6. The petition of Rich. Willis referred to the Committee for Examinations, to report whether he is chargeable with miscarriage during his attendance on the Committee for Safety, sitting at the Star Chamber.
	7. Order, on the petition of Aquila Wikes, keeper of the Gatehouse, for payment of 14l.,—his bill of charges for keeping Edw. Aldham a prisoner for some months,—that 7l. be paid him out of the exigent money of Council by Mr. Frost, and the other 7l. by the prisoner. [I. 66, pp. 478–479.]
March 18. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Lord Deputy of Ireland and the Parliament Commissioners there. We recommend to you the enclosed petition [of Capt. John Downes], complaining of wrong done to the petitioner by Charles, late Viscount Moore, by detaining money due to him for service in his Lordship's troop in Ireland. Relieve the petitioner, on just proof of the truth of what is alleged. [I. 97, p. 225; I. 66, p. 476.]
March 19.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The petition of John Davies, master of the Blessing of Carrickfergus, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	2. Lord Commissioner Whitelock to order that no timber be felled by Lawrence Halsted in Windsor Forest, for repair of Sunning Bridge, until further order, and that Halsted appear before Council to answer for cutting wood there.
	4, 16. The petitions of Hen. Cooke, master of the Irish Merchant, and of — Coytmor, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	5, 6. The petitions of Col. Flower and of William and Fenton Parsons referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	7, 8. The petition and papers of the Constant Warwick for freight, and of her owners for salvage, referred to the Admiralty Committee. [Also Vol. XXIII., No. 111.]
	9. The petition of William Hart referred to the Committee for Prisoners, to confer with Col. Berkstead concerning the damage alleged.
	10. To write Jacob Legay, collector of customs at Southampton, that such ships as have been stayed there upon Council's letter are to be dismissed, and allowed to proceed on their voyage.
	11. The petition of Robert Bancroft, a soldier at Liverpool, as also the paper of Col. Birch, to be considered on Wednesday.
	13. The letters from the ports, giving an account of the shipping fit for service, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	14. That committee to inform themselves of the report concerning the stay made of English shipping in the United Provinces, and to report.
	15. The letter and papers from Ipswich referred to the Com mittee for Prisoners; Mr. Corbett to take care hereof and make a speedy report.
	17. The business of recommending Mr. Cann to be minister of Hull recommitted to the Irish and Scoth Committee, and nothing to be done upon the last letter of the Council to Hull on his behalf, until further order.
	18. Order, on the remonstrance from the Dutch Ambassadors touching the Abraham and several other Dutch ships and goods, taken by letters of reprisal granted against the Dutch,—wherein they desire a declaration concerning the validity of an inhibition mentioned,—that a copy of the said remonstrance be sent to the court of delegates, and that the judges appoint a day for hearing counsel on both sides, and determine according to right and justice. [I. 66, pp. 481–484.]
March 19. Whitehall.	Council of State to Baron Thorpe. By reference from Parliament to us of some letters from the Assessment Commissioners in Yorkshire, we find there has been some difference of opinion between them, about the manner of assessing of the last six months, which may retard the collecting of those moneys, and the public service be thereby prejudiced. There will now be an opportunity, at the general meeting of the gentlemen of the whole county at the assizes, to have them come to a right understanding of each other. Use your best endeavour to accommodate the difference. We hope you will find no great difficulty, the gentlemen being all willing to promote the service, and differing only in the manner of doing it. [I. 97, p. 226.]
March 19.	Papers of the Constant Warwick referred to the Admiralty Committee:—
	112. Order by the Admiralty Committee, on the petition of the owners of the Constant Warwick for her to be set forth as a privateer on the coast of Ireland, recommending that victuals be allowed her by the Navy Committee, according to the ordinance of Parliament of 30 Nov. 1643, as she may be of special use in scattering and surprising the Irish men-of-war, preserving trade, and infesting the trade to and from the rebels, and a great assistance to the Irish squadron.—5 Oct. 1647. [1 page.]
	113. Order in the Admiralty Committee to request the Earl of Warwick, owner of half the Constant Warwick privateer, to direct her to receive 5,000l. at Bristol, and convey it to Dublin, for which service payment will be made, the President, appointed for that service, being still at Portsmouth, and a vessel of no great force.—2 May 1648. [¾ page.]
	114, 115. Receipt by Jo. Houghton of four firkins of money, in part of 5,000l., for the use of the Leinster forces under Col. Jones, laden at Bristol by Thos. Hill, sheriff of Dublin.—26 May 1648. [½ page. 2 copies.]
March 19.	116, 117. Receipt by Jo. Parsons of arms and other provisions of war from the Constant Warwick.—30 May 1648. [½ page. 2 copies.]
	118. Certificate by the Commanders-in-Chief for Leinster, that Capt. Rob. Dare, of the Constant Warwick, rode for defence of Dublin Bay up to this day, necessity compelling them to make stay of him.—Dublin, 29 June 1648. [½ page.]
	119. Appraisement of the Constant Warwick; total value, 2,081l. —20 Jan. 1649. [3 pages.]
	120. Memoranda relating to the above. [4 pages.]
	121. Petition of Rich. Tiler (on behalf of Capt. Robt. Moulton senior, Peter Pett, master shipwright, Capt. Rich. Swanley, Capt. Jno. Gilson, Wm. Jessop, and Thos. Turner, part owners of the Constant Warwick) to the Navy Committee, for an order to the Navy Commissioners to pay for the hire and freight of the said ship. Two years since, the Derby House Committee employed their ship for transportation of money and provisions to the garrison at Dublin, and after delivering her cargo, she remained in Dublin Bay, by the Governor's order, as a defence against the enemy, none of the Parliament ships being then in those parts. For these extraordinary services 734l. 17s. became due, which was represented to the committee, who gave order to the Navy Commissioners to examine the business, and make out a bill of imprest for payment of the mariners' wages. They accordingly paid petitioners 100l. and no more, but desired the committee to give order for passing a bill for satisfaction of her freight, hire, and extraordinary service, which has not been done. [1 page.]
	122. Petition of the owners of the Constant Warwick to the Council of State for satisfaction or restitution of their ship. The Constant Warwick, having been wickedly betrayed into a revolt, was afterwards rendered to the Earl of Warwick, Lord Admiral, and by his order sent into the Thames. Subsequently, Parliament desiring to buy the vessel for the service, in Jan. 1648–9, she was appraised at 2,081l., and the same month seized into the hands of the State, by an order of the House of Commons. Thereupon petitioners and the other owners were forced, at great charge, to take proceedings for clearing her in the Court of Admiralty, where a sentence of restitution was given, viz., of ½ part to the Earl of Warwick, 1/32 part to Capt. Robt. Moulton, 1/16 part each to Wm. Jessop, Capts. Rich. Swanley, Gilson, and Wm. Spencer, 3/32 to Peter Pett, and 1/32 to Thos. Turner. After the decree had passed, the owners endeavoured by Capt. Robt. Moulton to obtain the fruit thereof, but unsuccessfully, and have received no consideration, either for the ship or her service, since her seizure, though she has been out of their possession since Jan. 1648–9, and since then and now been employed as part of the Parliament fleet, and though there is now due to them, for her services before seizure, near upon 4,000l. [1 page. 6 original signatures.]
	123. Petition of the said owners to the Navy Committee to give order for satisfaction for their respective parts (as in the petition above mentioned), either by their proportions of the appraisement, with damages from the time of the ship's seizure, or for restitution of the ship, in the same good condition, with allowance for her service in the interim, or for satisfaction in some other way, to the true value of their respective interests. [¾ page.]
March 19.	124, 125. Order in the Committee of Trustees for sale of bishops' lands, on certificate of the decay of Tyne bridge, that Gilbert Marshall and Ant. Smyth, receivers of the late bishopric of Durham, repair such parts as the trustees, as lords of the manor of Gateside are to repair, Thos. Ledgard, alderman of Newcastle, and other purchasers of Frankland wood, finding the timber. [½ page.] With receipt by John Vasey, surveyor of the work, of 483l. 3s. 5d. for the said bridge, from Marshall and Smyth.—16 Oct. 1656. [⅓ page.]
March 19. Hague.	126. Certificate by Thos. Ketelby that Capt. Thos. Cory entered His Majesty's fleet under the command of Prince Rupert at Kinsale, in 1648, and went to Lisbon and the Straits, where he served in the Constant James as lieutenant under Capt. Thos. Braithwait, and that ship being forced into Carthagena by General Blake, was there pillaged and lost. [¾ page.]
March ?	127. [Capt. Thos. Cory ? to—.] If by your means Mr. Fox or Mr. Thomson may come hither, you will lay a very great obligation upon me, as I have to the value of 2,000 guilders lying in the Lombard for less than 300, which are liable to be forfeited, as I have neither the principal nor interest to pay them. There is also a gold medal which I value more than all the rest, as it was given to me by the late King of blessed memory, and has his own and the present King's picture on one side, and his royal standard on the other. [½ page. This paper has neither name nor date, but was found with the preceding.]
March 19.	128. Certificate of Thos. Parker, usher in the Court of Wards, where the Parliament Committee sits for removing obstructions, to the Committee for regulating the fees of the Law courts, on an order of 1st March, that he demands 4d. fee on each affidavit. [⅓ page.]
March 21.	129. Order in Parliament that the offices of postmaster inland and foreign are and ought to be in the sole power and disposal of Parliament.
	That the Council of State consider the state of the offices of postmaster, and the interests of those persons who claim any therein, and consider how the same may be settled for the advantage of the commonwealth. [²/3 page.]
March 22.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Lord Commissioner Lisle to be President of the Council until this day month.
	2. The letter of Mr. Corbett to the Treasurers-at-war, desiring payment of 150l. to his brother, Thos. Corbett, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, to report out of what treasury it shall be paid.
	3. The petition of Dr. Sibbald to be considered next Wednesday, as also the Act requiring the departure of all Scots out of England, and the orders of Council concerning Sibbald.
	4. The letter of Col. Heane from Jersey, with the trunk of papers and briefs, referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	5. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to consider next Wednesday as to sending an agent to Turkey.
	6. The petition of Jno. Harper, master of the William, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	7. The Admiralty Committee to inform themselves concerning the report of a Dutch man-of-war riding in the Thames, and examining the ships of this nation which pass in and out, and to report.
	8. That committee to consider whether the frigate lately taken by Capt. Peacock may not be fit to be employed in the service.
	9. The letters taken in Essex out of a Dutch ship referred to the Committee for Examinations, to peruse and report.
	10. The letter and papers from Newcastle referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	11, 12, 14. Also the letter of General Blake from the Andrew in the Downs, the letter of Sir Thos. Walsingham, and the letter of Capt. Penn, with the examinations enclosed.
	13, 15. The letter from Hull, and the letter of the deputies to the Serjeant-at-arms, as to apprehending two collectors in Wales, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee. [I. 66, pp. 487–489.]
March 22. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. Having thought fit to add to the number of men in the ships appointed for this summer's guard, we enclose you a list; issue orders for adding so many more on each ship as are therein mentioned with all expedition, especially on those ships that are already at sea. [I. 97, p. 227.]
March 22. Leghorn.	130. Charles Longland to the Navy Commissioners. I received your letter, with a commission from the Council of State, and your instructions to serve the State's ships in these seas, which I will endeavour to do. Particulars of ships. The French have lately taken 2 English ships, one laden from Lisbon, and the other, supposed to be the Benjamin, bound home from Naples and Messina. I hope that a constant fleet in these seas will wear out and consume this piratical nation. [1 page.]
March 23.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The letters of Sir Thos. Bendish from Constantinople, of 10 June and 22 Dec., referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs.
	2. The petition of the Island (Iceland ?) fishermen referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	3. The petition of Rebecca, relict of Capt. Abraham Wheeler, late captain of the Convertine, referred to the said committee, who are to consider his good services, and what may be given to her, by the Act for giving rewards to persons who have deserved well.
	4. The letters from Essex belonging to the Dutch Ambassadors to be delivered to such person as they send to receive them, upon giving a receipt.
	5. The Irish and Scotch Committee to send for the persons they nominated to Council to go to Scotland as administrators of justice, receive their resolutions, and agree as to their going thither; and in case all of them shall not be willing to go, to send away those that are, and to report what they do.
	6. The charges of the persons who brought the letters from Essex to be defrayed by Mr. Frost.
	7. The order of Parliament as to preparing some Acts to be offered to the House referred to the committee for that business; Lord Commissioner Whitelock to take care thereof.
	8. The Irish and Scotch Committee to consider as to sending 12 or more ministers to Scotland, to reside in the garrisons and other convenient places there, according to the order of the House.
	9. The Committee for Examinations to receive informations concerning Col. Whitley Robinson and others, now about town, and secure them if they see cause, until their several conditions are known.
	10. The Admiralty Committee to prepare an account of what ships are already appointed for the summer guard, the stations to which they are appointed, and the time when they will be made ready, and to consider what more should be set forth, and what other officers for commanding the fleet chosen; also what general instructions are to be given to the commanders of the fleet; and to report with speed. Also to send for the Commissioners of the Trinity House, or any other persons they think fit to advise with, on any of these matters.
	11. All the members of Council added, for the matters above referred to, to the Admiralty Committee, and to sit every afternoon in the Council Chamber.
	12. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to prepare an answer to the paper last received from the Spanish Ambassador.
	19. Mr. Rowe to cancel and deliver up to Hugh Peters the bond of Col. Geo. Cooke for 1,500l., entered into on consideration of 820l. 18s. 4d. paid to him for raising and transporting 100 horsemen to Ireland, Council being satisfied of his full performance. [I. 66, pp. 491–495.]
March 23. Whitehall.	Council of State to the officers of the ports of Portsmouth, Southampton, Weymouth, Poole, Dartmouth, Bristol, Barnstaple, Carisbrooke, Newcastle, Hull, Yarmouth, Ipswich, and Dover. We approve your diligence and readiness in causing a survey to be made of all the ships in your port, but it was not our intention to lay any restraint upon trade, or stop upon any ship; we hereby give leave to all ships outward bound and ready to sail to proceed on their voyage, provided you give us an account where each ship is bound, and how many remain in port which may be serviceable upon any emergency. [I. 97, p. 228.]
March 23. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Commissioners of Parliament in Ireland. On the case of Lord Montgomery, to the same effect as that of 2 March; adding that as he pleads great necessities, they are to give direction that he may be supplied out of his estate in Ireland suitable to his quality, until further order. [I. 97, p. 229.]
March 24.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The Council to proceed to the nomination of a Vice and Rear Admiral for the summer fleet.
	3. The intelligence read this day to be continued, and order given to the party employed therein accordingly.
	4. The letter and papers from Bangor referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	5. The petition of the Eastland merchants to be sent to Mr. Scott, for presentation to the House.
	6. The remonstrance of the merchants trading to Spain referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs.
	7. The petition of the merchants trading to the East land referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	8. To write the Navy Commissioners and the Commissioners of the Trinity House to cause 23 ships to be taken up as convoys, for six months certain and eight months uncertain, each to be able to carry 30 or 40 guns, and be fitted out with all speed, and their commanders to be faithful and able men. [I. 66, pp. 497, 498.]
March 24. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Commissioners. The Entrance, Fairfax, Centurion, Assurance, and Adventure are coming into the Downs; they should remain at sea two months longer. Order that provision of all sorts may be made for them for that period, and sent down to them; that the mariners may be encouraged to continue in the service, pay them so much of their wages due as may give them content. There are two ships at Portsmouth and two in the Thames fit to be made fire ships; furnish them with necessaries, and despatch them to the Downs.
	We have written the Navy Committee that the remainder of the ships in the Thames appointed by Parliament for convoys, and not yet taken up, may be contracted with for 6 months certain and eight months uncertain. Use all diligence in expediting them to sea, and upon conference with those of the Trinity House, certify the names of fit commanders. [I. 97, p. 230.]
March 24. Whitehall.	Council of State to General Blake. As there may be great occasions of ships-of-war in the Downs, by reason of the backwardness of many of those at Chatham and in the Thames, we have ordered the Entrance and 4 others, now with Capt. Penn, to be kept out two or three months longer; the companies of these ships to be paid part of their wages. We do not doubt of your discreet management of this business, by dealing with the officers and companies of the said ships, so that they may receive full satisfaction therein, considering how the affairs of the State now stand. Cause a survey to be taken of the above ships, and certify us whether they are fit for present service. [I. 97, p. 231.]
March 24. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Committee. As the fleet appointed this summer should be inforced by the remainder of the ships appointed for convoys, and not yet taken up, all possible expedition should be used for providing such shipping; direct the Navy Commissioners to contract with the owners for them for six months certain, and eight months uncertain, and choose such only as may be fit for service. We intend to employ them only so long as the pressing services of the commonwealth shall require, and after that to dismiss them to the service of convoys, and for which they were first appointed. [I. 97, p. 232.]
March 25.	31. Petition of Elizabeth Salmon, widow, to the Council of State, for satisfaction for the death of her former husband, Captain Rob. Bonner, who, in 1619,—peace being made with the Dutch as to the East India trade,—was treacherously taken, and barbarously slain by them, with his ship, the Dragon, lying at Tekowe, worth 100,000l., of which 7,000l. belonged to her husband. Is informed of a treaty of peace with the Dutch, therefore begs reparation of her losses. With reference thereon to the Committee for Foreign Affairs, and some of the East India Company to attend. [1 page; note by Bradshaw. Also I. 66, p. 503.]
March 25.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. Order on the petition of Sir Adam Hepburne, of Homber, on behalf of himself and two sons, John Cockbourne, of Ormstone, and Thos. Hepburne, student at St. Andrew's, Scotland, that Thomas Hepburne shall have liberty to return to Scotland to follow his studies on taking the engagement, and that Sir Adam and Jno. Cockburne shall have the liberty of the city and the places within the late lines of communication, on bond in 1,000l. each, with two sureties in 500l. each, on the usual terms.
	3. The bills presented to the House from Sir Abraham Williams, as to the charge of the reception of the Dutch Ambassadors at his house, referred to Mr. Frost.
	4. The petition of Thos. Cockerell, mariner, of Kingston-upon-Hull, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	5. That of Lieut.-Col. Geo. Montgomery and John Innis referred to the Committee for Prisoners, who are to send for the said prisoners in the Gatehouse, examine them, and report their condition, and what should be done with them.
	8. The petition of the inferior officers of the late High Court of Justice referred to the late Commissioners there, who are to appoint some person to receive from Mr. Frost the 1,000l. appointed for paying off their arrears, proportionably to their salaries.
	12. The Earl of Lauderdale, prisoner in the Tower, to have the liberty of the Tower.
	15. A messenger of Council to take direction from Mr. Rowe for finding out such ships in the Thames as he shall give him an account of.
	16. Order, on the petition of Arth. Skete, of Dover, that a letter be sent to the Mayor and Governor of the castle, to consider his fitness for the employment he petitions for, or of some other person fit for it, and certify.
	17. The petition of Edw. Watkins referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs.
	18, 22, 23, 24. The petitions of Hen. Mason, of Capt. Fras. Kirbie, of Edw. Reading for the place of out storekeeper at Chatham, and of Chas. Fairweather, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	19. Order, on the report from the Committee for Examinations on Mr. Willis's business, that Council sees no ground for keeping from him his dues and arrears payable by the Revenue Committee.
	20. Order, on considering the order of Council of June last, for providing 500l. for repairing the fortifications of the garrison at Portsmouth, that the Admiralty Committee consider where the money may be had.
	21. Twenty marks to be given to Wm. Mowbray, in consideration of his good services, to enable him to buy a horse.
	25. The petition of Col. Anth. Hungerford referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, to hasten the payment of the money already assigned him, he being unable, by reason of his present necessities, to wait the payment of it in course.
	27. The Ordnance Committee to hasten in the brass guns in the several garrisons, that they may be ready for sea service.
	28. The Admiralty Committee to consider how a magazine of guns may be provided, for supplying any emergent occasions, or such ships as are or shall be built.
	29. The Committee for Prisoners to meet to-morrow in the Admiralty Chamber, and consider the letter and papers from Ipswich, referred to that committee, and report their opinion concerning the prisoners mentioned therein; and the said committee to meet every Thursday for dispatch of business.
	30. Dr. Sibbald to be bailed, on bond in 500l. with two sureties in 250l. on the usual terms, and Josias Berners and Mr. Powell to take his bail.
	31. Lord Montgomery of Ardes to have liberty to go to Ireland and abide there for three months, for bringing over his family from thence, he giving security for his good behaviour, and return to Council at the time limited.
	32. The Lord General and Denis Bond to go to Chatham, to see in what forwardness the ships are for the summer guard, and quicken the officers in hastening them forth; also to repair to Col. Blake in the Downs, and confer with him touching the instructions to be given to the Commander-in-Chief of the Fleet.
	33. The Ordnance officers to go to Gresham College, or any other place in the city of London where there are any brass guns, and make a survey thereof.
	34. To write the Navy Committee to contract with the gunfounder for guns to furnish the Antelope, Drake, Merlin, and Martin frigates, and two shallops, now building, that are to row with 20 oars apiece, all which are intended for the summer guard.
	35. The charges of the Lord General and Mr. Bond, in their journey to Chatham and the Downs, to be defrayed by Mr. Frost. [I. 66, pp. 501–508.]
March 25. Whitehall.	Council of State to Rich. Bradshaw, resident at Hamburg. We have considered the enclosed resolutions concerning the ordering of the court of the Merchant Adventurers at Hamburg, and desire you to proceed according to their direction. [I. 97, p. 233.] Enclosing,
	i. Order in the Council of State that Rich. Bradshaw, resident at Hamburg, be authorised to admit into Court those members of the English company there who, since the former order of Council excluding non-engagers, have taken the engagement, and to permit such members to act and vote as formerly, they continuing in their fidelity, and manifesting their good affection to this commonwealth and Government, whereof such resident is to take notice from time to time, and give information as he shall see cause; Mr. Frost to transmit this order. [I. 66, p. 509.]
March 25. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. We send you the petition and report concerning the matter between the Treasurers-atwar and [Mr. Games and John Lewis] receivers of the assessements of cos. Carmarthen and Brecknock, who were sent for in safe custody, the public service being endangered. As the slight or contempt was of your warrant, though the disservice was to the public, and as the receivers are more immediately your ministers, we desire you to examine the business, hear the treasurers, Mr. Browne, and them, and give such order as you think fit. [I. 97, p. 234; I. 66, p. 513.]
March 26.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The petition of the Merchant Adventurers referred to the Committee for Foreign Affairs, and some of the company to attend them on Wednesday, to give more particular information.
	2. The petition of Col. Mayo and Col. Mildmay, and the whole business of permitting regiments of Irish to be transported to Spain, to be considered next Wednesday.
	3. The appointed committee to meet the agent from the Duke of Tuscany at Whitehall on Wednesday, and receive what he has to offer, and Sir Oliver Fleming to give him notice.
	4. The business of Marmaduke Beckwith and other children of Capt. Arthur Beckwith, deceased, referred to Council by Parliament, to be reported to the House by the Lord President, that such remedy may be provided in that and like cases as they shall deem fit. [I. 66, pp. 511, 512.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Council of State to General Blake. By the enclosed petition, you will understand that the merchants trading to the Eastlands have some ships now riding in the Texel, laden with the commodities of that country, waiting for a man-of-war to convoy them. Order such of the State's ships as you judge most fit to sail thither, take the ships, and bring them in to the Downs; and make use of this opportunity to inform yourself what preparations of shipping are being made in those parts, and of the present state of affairs there. [I. 97, p. 235.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Lord Mayor and Aldermen, and Militia Committee of London. The season of the year and the present state of affairs require the speedy setting forth of the fleet for this summer's service. As many of the brass guns formerly used in the fleet have, during the late wars, been carried to several garrisons, there is a want of guns for sea service; there being several brass guns at Gresham College, and in other places in the city fit for the occasion, order that they be delivered to the Ordnance officers, and use all expedition, the importance of the service to which they are designed admitting of no delay.
	As there is a pretension of right made to such guns on behalf of the city, we shall be ready to receive and consider any claim which they shall make to them; and if it appear that they belong to the city, we will take care, after the service is past to which they are designed, that they are either restored, or satisfaction made according to their value. [I. 97, p. 236.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Navy Committee. Some frigates now building will be shortly finished, but unless speedy course be taken for supplying their guns, their setting out will be delayed; contract for as many as they are designed to carry, that there may be no disappointment to the service. [I. 97, p. 237.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Mayor of Dover and the Governor of the castle. The enclosed petition, craving the place of postmaster of Dover, from which Mr. Whetstone was lately removed, having been presented to us, and the petitioner being unknown, we desire you to inform yourselves concerning him, and certify thereon, that the public dispatches may not be retarded; in case there be any other person there of whose fitness and fidelity you can have good assurance, return his name likewise to Council. [I. 97, p. 239.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. The Treasurers-atwar have 60,000l. ready of the 180,000l. assigned to be brought to them at the Treasury in Guildhall, for the use of the forces in Scotland, and the residue may be furnished in Scotland and the North of England, for supply of the present necessities of the forces, and may be answered here, as the money comes in to them; grant them your warrants, out of moneys appointed for the use of the said forces, to send to Leith, or furnish there by bills of exchange, &c. 108,000l., to be there disposed for payment of the said forces, &c. on warrants of Major-General Deane, Commander-in-Chief there. [I. 97, p. 240.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Lieutenant of the Tower. Parliament having appointed the house in the Tower adjoining the Record Office, called Bowyer's House, as a dwelling for the Clerk of the Records in the Tower, and there being very great necessity of accommodating him there, in order to the methodising the records brought out of Scotland, you are forthwith to remove all the persons now there, and deliver the same to Mr. Ryley for his residence, and for keeping the records. [I. 97, p. 241.]
March 26. Whitehall.	Council of State to Rowland Dawkins, Carmarthen. As we see no cause for the detention of the small Dutch vessel with sack and sugar which arrived at Tenby Quay from Porto Porta, bound for Rotterdam, you are to discharge her, that she may proceed on her voyage. [I. 97, p. 242.]
[March 26.]	132. Petition and address of the Master, Warden, and Commonalty of Tilers and Bricklayers of London to the Committee for regulating the Law sitting at Westminster, for an increase of their power, whereby the frequent abuses of the tilemakers, bricklayers, and lime men may be reformed, and that a bill may be drawn and presented by the said committee to Parliament, for regulating new buildings.
	In 17 Edw. IV., an Act was passed for making and burning tiles, and searchers were appointed to see that no abuse was used therein. In 19 Hen. VII. it was enacted that the Chancellor, Treasurer, and two chief justices for the time being should grant and confirm such fraternities and guilds as were most convenient for better order and government. In 10 Eliz. a charter was granted to the tilers and bricklayers of London (which has been since confirmed), whereby they were made a free body and company of the city, with power to govern all freemen and foreigners, to view any work, and correct the faults of any workman using their art within 15 miles of the city, and of all other matters relating thereto.
	By virtue of such statutes, petitioners had power and authority to view any ground where tiles, bricks, lime, and sand were made and sold, and if they found any unsized or insufficient, to destroy them, or fine the owners at their discretion. According to such powers, petitioners and their predecessors have made diligent search into such matters, and have prosecuted divers gross abuses, and endeavoured a full reformation; but since the distracted times, the tilemakers, brickmakers, and lime men have become most stubborn and disobedient, and refuse to observe the above Acts of Parliament and orders, minding their own private gain in preference to the public good.
	Building with brick has been very graceful to the city of London, and is very beneficial in preserving the same from fire, also for the preservation of timber, for avoiding the many juttings and encroachments on ground, the darkening of lights, the straightening and stifling the streets, and the infection of plague. They wish for the unity of the ancient artificers, workmen, and builders incorporated within the city, the buildings being now for the most part built with slight fir timber, fit for entertaining fire, and so endangering the city. [1 page, damaged.] Annexing,
	132. i. Statement by the same of the advantages of substituting bricks for timber in building houses, viz.:—Protection from fire: e.g., Numerous instances given of fires on London Bridge, St. Catherine's by the Tower, Covent Garden, Newgate Market, Tower Street, Lovell's Inn, &c. stayed by means of brick houses. Preservation of timber. Prevention of incumbrances to the streets by the building out of jutties on the first story. Prevention of the excessive breeding of vermin in wood houses. The honour and beauty of the capital city of the commonwealth. 26 March 1652. [1½ pages, damaged.]
March 27. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Governors of Sutton's Hospital. You will understand, by the enclosed petition of Rich. Willis, his good and faithful services as a soldier in the war of Scotland, and his many wounds, whereby he is wholly unable to do anything for his subsistence. As it is not in our power to give him a constant maintenance, we recommend him to you, and desire you to order his admission into the house, and the usual maintenance. [I. 97, p. 243.]
March 29.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1, 15. Dr. Sibbald to be bailed on bond in 500l., with two sureties in 250l. each, on the usual conditions, and Mr. Dodson, keeper of the New Prison, is to bring him and his sureties to the Secretary of Council, to enter in bond.
	2. The letter from the Vice Admiralty of Cornwall from Wotton referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	3. Gualter Frost [jun.] to continue in the same employment and salary, notwithstanding the death of his father.
	4. The Lord President to represent the condition of Mr. Frost's family to the House.
	5. The Council to nominate one to Parliament as their Secretary.
	6. John Thurloe to be presented to the House as Secretary to the Council of State, in the room of Mr. Frost, deceased.
	7. Major Purling to be brought before the Irish and Scotch Committee in safe custody.
	8. The petition of Edw. Stacey referred to that committee.
	9. The report of an answer to the last paper of the Spanish Ambassador to be considered to-morrow.
	10. The letter of General Blake from the Downs read.
	11. The petition of Nich. Julian referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	12. The liberty given to Sir Adam Hepburne to extend to such of his servants as he shall name. [I. 66, pp. 515, 516.]
March 30.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The business of Mr. Hamilton to be reported to-morrow.
	2. Col. Berkstead to examine the boy who was taken cutting the hangings in Whitehall, to get the gold out of them, concerning that and other like misdemeanors suspected to have been committed by him in Whitehall, take informations, and dispose of him according to law, and bind over prosecutor and witnesses to give evidence.
	4. Dr. Walker to take the deposition of John Johnson, lately come from Holland, concerning the embargo laid upon English ships there, to be done without fee and upon oath, and sent to Council to-morrow.
	5. The petition of Major Purling referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee, and he to have leave to go on parole until Thursday, when he is to appear before the Committee.
	6. Mr. Thurloe nominated clerk to the Council, in place of Mr. Frost, late secretary.
	7. Gualter Frost to be assistant clerk to the Council.
	8. The Council to consider next Thursday week whether they will have more than one clerk.
	9. The Irish and Scotch Committee to send the Declaration of Parliament to Scotland, according to order.
	10. The Committee for Foreign Affairs to draw a letter to the Duchess of Savoy, according to the desire of the Levant merchants.
	11. The 1,000l. arrears to the officers of the High Court of Justice to be paid by Mr. Frost to Sir John Thorowgood, Justice Manley, and Major Hurst, for paying off the arrears of the officers, proportionable to their respective salaries.
	12. The letter from Lyons Inn, signed Hen. Field, and the papers enclosed, referred to the Committee for Examinations.
	13. The letter of Col. Bingham, from Guernsey, referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	14. Gualter Frost, assistant clerk to the Council, to receive and disburse the 10,000l. appointed by former order to be paid to Gualter Frost, late secretary, to be disposed of as Council shall order. [I. 66, pp. 518–520.]
March 30. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Lord General. Finding it necessary, for the better and more effectual carrying on of the service in Scotland, that two regiments of foot of 1,200 men each besides officers, and one regiment of horse of those now in England, should forthwith march to Scotland, you are to give order that the regiments of foot which shall be appointed to this service be recruited to 1,200, and that both horse and foot march speedily into Scotland. [I. 97, p. 244.]
March 30. Whitehall.	Council of State to John Jackson, Treasurer of the Excise. By our order of 19 July last, we set apart 1,200l. out of the 10,000l. advanced for Jersey for buying materials and other necessaries, which being now performed, there will be no further occasion for the remainder of the 1,200l.; we therefore leave it to answer such other occasions as we shall charge upon it. [I. 97, p. 245.]
March 30. Whitehall.	Council of State to the Army Committee. Finding it necessary to increase the infantry in Scotland to 15,000, and to settle several garrisons for the security of that country, we have thought fit, with advice of the Lord General, that two of the regiments of foot now in England, consisting of 700 each, should be made up to 1,200 each, besides officers, and sent to Scotland, with 200 privates, four serjeants, and six corporals, and be added to any of the regiments there, or otherwise employed as there shall be occasion. Also that provision should be made for four more deputies to the muster master, and for the governors, gunners, fire and candles, for the several garrisons mentioned in the enclosed list, all which amounts to 1,752l. 6s. 8d. monthly. That provision may be made for pay of these forces and garrisons without increase of charge, we have ordered that five of the horse regiments in Scotland be reduced to 70 in a troop, and the other two to 60 in a troop, and six of the eight companies of dragoons to 60 in each company; and that instead of the horse and dragoons so to be reduced, one of the horse regiments now in England shall attend upon the service in Scotland, and the officers thereof have the same allowance of pay, and number of led horses, as those already there. According to these additions and alterations, as expressed in the list enclosed, and signed by Mr. Frost, assistant to the clerk of this Council, we desire the establishment may be altered, and that from the last day of May next, pay may be assigned to the several forces answerable thereto.
	As this alteration lessens the charge in the whole, and there is a necessity for the recruiting of two regiments of foot of 700 as they are now in England to 1,200 each, in order to their march in Scotland, we desire that the two foot regiments which shall be ordered to march for Scotland may be paid according to their respective musters, but not exceeding 1,200 apiece, from 5 April next. [I. 97, pp. 246, 247.]
March 31.	Council of State. Day's Proceedings.
	1. The petition of Jas. Williamson referred to the Irish and Scotch Committee.
	2. Order, on the petition of Banastre Maynard, that the order of Parliament, and that of the Council, made for the prohibition of * * *.
	3. The petition of Lieut.-Col. Edw. Salmon referred to the Ordnance Committee, who are to cause the account to be examined and stated in a right way, and report.
	4. The Admiralty Committee to dispose of the ships designed for ordinary convoys to the service for convoys, except those intended for the Straits, in case the information now given of the freeing of the English ships from the embargo laid upon them in Holland be true.
	5. The list of guns in the city returned by the Ordnance officers to Council referred to the Ordnance Committee, to select such as are most fit for the service, and send a list thereof to Council; also to call for an account from the Ordnance officers of what guns were delivered out of the Tower, for the use of the city forts, and what they received back, and to report.
	6. The petition of Robert Williams, Hen. Liddall, and others, referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	7. After the Ordnance Committee shall report what guns of those in the city will be useful for the public, a letter is to be sent to the Common Council of London, to deliver such guns to the Ordnance officers by indenture.
	8. The answer to the Spanish Ambassadors approved, and to be translated, signed, and sent.
	9. Mr. Milton to translate the said paper into Latin, to be sent as the copy.
	10. Any two members of Council who are of the number of Commissioners appointed to meet the Spanish Ambassador to carry the answer to him.
	11. Lord Commissioner Whitelock, Sir Hen. Vane, Lord Bradshaw, Col. Wauton, Col. Morley, Mr. Bond, Mr. Love, and the Lord President, to be a committee to consider where the 1,000l. ordered by Parliament for the wife and children of Gualter Frost, late secretary to Council, may be had, and to consider of the distribution of it, and likewise of the whole matter referred by order of Parliament to Council; Col. Morley to take care of it.
	13. The petition of the merchants trading to France referred to the Admiralty Committee.
	14. The report from the Committee for Prisoners, concerning the pirates taken by Capt. Peacock, and sent to Ipswich where they now are, referred to the Admiralty Committee, to dispose of them as they think fit. [I. 66, pp. 522–525.]
March 31. Whitehall.	Council of State to Col. Blake. There are divers vessels to be set forth from the coast of Sussex for the mackerel fishing, and the commanders have desired that a small vessel or two belonging to the State may be ordered to attend them during the fishing season; appoint such a vessel or vessels as you shall think fit, and with as much speed as may be. [I. 97, p. 248.]
March 31 ?	133. Petition of the merchants trading to France to the Admiralty Committee, for a convoy to London for three ships at St. Malo, with a considerable lading of linen cloth, as they cannot proceed, there being so many enemies in the sea. With note of the Nightingale to give convoy. Fourteen signatures. [1 page.]
March 31.	134. Thos. Bulstrode and three others to the Committee for regulating the Excise. We have contracted with Henry Rumsey, of Sudbrooke, co. Monmouth, for the excise of all inland commodities except soap, salt, and tobacco pipes, consumed in cos. Monmouth, Brecknock, and Radnor for one year, at the farm rent of 400l., which is a considerable advance, the receipts before being mostly swallowed up in the charge. Rumsey should be appointed sub-collector for receiving the excise of all foreign commodities imported into the said counties, at an allowance of 2s. a pound. [1 page.]
March ?	135. Note that Dover Harbour was erected by Henry VIII. at a charge of 100,000l., and that care has since then been taken for its maintenance, as in 23 Eliz., an Act was passed for 3d. per ton on all English vessels trading with merchandise throughout the kingdom, to be continued for eight years, and applied towards its repair. That in 1 James, the said Act was renewed, and the harbour incorporated by the name of warden and assistants, and no passage allowed to France but by Dover, for the benefit of the said harbour; and that in 13 Charles he granted a new duty of 1s. a pack on all composition goods between Dover and Flanders.
	The yearly repair will now cost more than in 20 years before, the timber, stone, and ironwork being so much wasted by the sea. The composition trade has paid from 30,000l. to 60,000l. per annum to the State, and may do so again if the harbour is preserved, and a settled convoy appointed for the merchants. The chief revenue of the harbour was by the tonnage of strangers' ships and cranage of goods, which now yield little or no profit, divers merchants, mariners, and others having withdrawn for want of trade, and above 200 dwelling houses standing empty.
	The town has paid 35,000l. on public faith, assessments, &c., and has lost 60 ships since the late troubles; the charge of their poor is 650l. a year, and the revenue of the pier is not above 160l., out of which the officers and assessments have to be paid.
	It is the only dry harbour on the south coast for the repair and security of merchant ships, and does not lie between heads, as other piers do, but open to the sea, and so is subject to greater damage, and more concerned in the Parliament's care than any other pier in England.
	The money received in 1646 was 1,000l., in 1649, 1,200l., and in 1651, 1,000l., which has all been disbursed, and the harbour is now much in debt for timber, &c., besides having great breaches lately made in it. [1 page.]
March ?	136. Drs. William Clerk and John Exton, Admiralty Judges, to the Council of State. We called a court and made an Act to give notice of your order of suspension of 18 February, and caused publication. Since then we have received yours of 3 March, intimating that you did not intend that the ordinary proceedings of law should be thereby stopped, as to the ships which were taken before that order of suspension. Thereupon Capt. Stephens, upon letters of marque granted by the Council of State warrant, issued out a commission to examine witnesses concerning the capture of the Golden Lion with French wines for Frenchmen's account; that commission being returned before us in court, it was alleged, on behalf of the master of the Golden Lion, that the capture was made on 19 February, the day after your order of suspension, but the very day that we made our Act of publication of it. Capt. Stephens affirmed that the capture was two or three days before, on the coast of France near Brittany; therefore we conceive that, though the capture should fall out to be on the said 19 February, yet, being done near Ruscoe [Roscoff], upon the coast of Brittany, it was a good capture. [1 page.]